Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe
Introduction
This Cranberry Apple Coleslaw is a refreshing twist on classic coleslaw, combining crisp cabbage with sweet apples and tart cranberries. It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded green or red cabbage
- 1 large apple, julienned or thinly sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 carrot, shredded
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds (optional)
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash and finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or food processor. Slice the apple thinly in julienne style, shred the carrot, and thinly slice the red onion if using.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, sliced apples, dried cranberries, shredded carrot, and sliced red onion (if included).
- Step 4: Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed slaw and stir thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the tangy sweetness.
- Step 6: Just before serving, sprinkle the coleslaw with chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds to add a crunchy texture contrast.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the dressing.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Swap walnuts with pecans or toasted almonds for a different crunch.
- If you prefer a sweeter slaw, increase the honey or maple syrup slightly.
Storage
Store the coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving as the dressing may settle. For best texture, add nuts or seeds just before serving to keep them crunchy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this coleslaw in advance?
Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You can prepare it up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated.
What can I use if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or lemon juice, which will still provide the tangy balance needed for the dressing.
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Cranberry Apple Coleslaw Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and tangy Cranberry Apple Coleslaw featuring shredded cabbage, crisp apples, dried cranberries, and a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. This easy-to-make slaw is perfect for summer meals, potlucks, or as a vibrant side dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Fruits
- 4 cups shredded green or red cabbage
- 1 large apple, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, shredded
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
Dry Ingredients
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds (optional)
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Produce: Wash and finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or food processor. Slice the apple thinly in julienne style, shred the carrot, and thinly slice the red onion if using.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, sliced apples, dried cranberries, shredded carrot, and sliced red onion (if included).
- Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed slaw and stir thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the tangy sweetness.
- Serve and Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the coleslaw with chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds to add a crunchy texture contrast.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for additional freshness.
- Walnuts or sunflower seeds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup according to taste.
- This slaw pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed as a standalone salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cranberry Apple Coleslaw, coleslaw recipe, apple coleslaw, cranberry salad, healthy side dish, vegetarian salad, no-cook salad

